Contacting Deceased Owners Children

[Karen K.]

I found a property near me that looked abandoned and upon researching it, I found out that the owner has passed away (1 year ago).  He is still listed as the owner of the property on an online county search.  I searched his name and found the obituary with the names of his children.  Should I try to contact the children, send a general letter (not addressed to a specific person) to the property, or is there another way to go about contacting someone about possibly purchasing the property?  

[Rick H.]

I'm confused as to why you would ask the BP forum community if you should do something. 

Yes. By all means. There is no down side to asking. 

It's sorta like asking for a date. You'll never know unless you ask. 

Really what you're asking us is if this is appropriate or inappropriate behavior. 

Yes it is. IF you act appropriately. I'm betting you will. 

Don't call them offering to  buy it. Contact them offering to help in any way. Find a way to connect with their situation and help them find a mutual connection and means to identify. I remember when my own Dad died, unexpecantly, when I was in college. 

You might be able to help one or more heirs through a difficult time by putting up the dough to probate the estate or find the attorney. 

Always think about the other person, which is why you posted, but remember that you are in the problem solving business